Construction

Lansing, MI — Michigan OSHA is increasing its presence on construction sites and in manufacturing facilities as part of two state emphasis programs launched Nov. 16 in an effort to help ensure employers in these industries protect their workers from exposure to COVID-19.

Washington — A pair of new guidance documents from OSHA outline measures employers should take to help prevent the spread of COVID-19 and reduce the risk of heat-related illness among workers wearing cloth facial coverings in hot and humid conditions or performing strenuous tasks.

Washington — Secretary of Labor Eugene Scalia has renewed the two-year charter for the OSHA Advisory Committee on Construction Safety and Health, according to a notice published in the Nov. 6 Federal Register.

Silver Spring, MD — In response to a stakeholder request, as well as recommendations from OSHA and NIOSH, CPWR – The Center for Construction Research and Training has developed a free online tool aimed at helping employers create strategies to control construction worker exposure to COVID-19.

Salem, OR — A new online video training course developed by Oregon OSHA is intended to help employers and workers in the construction industry meet the requirements of the agency’s fall protection standards.

Falls Church, VA — New resources from AIHA are intended to educate construction company owners and leaders on worker health hazards, including exposure to heat, excessive noise and air contaminants.

Washington — OSHA has finalized revisions to its beryllium standards for the construction and shipyard industries. Announced Aug. 28, the final rule includes changes designed to “clarify the standards and simplify or improve compliance.”

Silver Spring, MD — As the United States approaches six months of adjusting to the COVID-19 pandemic, employers and employees mustn’t overlook longtime safety hazards such as falls and electricity.

Nieuwegein, The Netherlands — On-the-job exposure to silica, beryllium and certain other metals may be linked to the inflammatory disease sarcoidosis, results of a recent study led by Dutch researchers suggest.

Sydney — Workers in the construction and agriculture industries face an increased risk of knee osteoarthritis, in part because of the rigorous physical demands of the job, results of a recent study led by researchers at the University of Sydney suggest.